Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBSAG) Test

This assay is useful for the diagnosis of acute, recent and chronic HBV infection. It also determines the chronic Hepatitis B infection status. It is the first serologic marker to appear in the serum at 6 to 16 weeks following exposure to HBV. It usually disappears 1 to 2 months after the onset of symptoms. Persistence >6 months indicates chronic carrier state or chronic HBV infection.